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The DA is shocked by the planned trip of Maluti-A-Phofung (MaP) Local Municipality Mayor, Gilbert Mokotso, Speaker, Paratlane Motloung, and Council Whip, Moeketsi Lebesa, to South Korea on the invitation of SALGA. The fact that this was considered and brought to the council shows how disconnected the municipality leadership is from the current crisis in MaP.

The main topics of the conference in South Korea are;

• The future of the feminist municipality
• Water and carbon neutrality
• Culture and climate. Heal the planet
• Digital rights
• The future of housing
• Public spaces a catalyst for improved mental health

In a municipality riddled with service delivery problems, communities that are days without water and electricity, sewerage running down the streets and crumbling infrastructure, it is puzzling that the municipality leadership can even consider leaving residents to fend for themselves while they waste funds on a visit to South Korea.

The total cost for the trip amounts to R789 093, 00 including business class flight tickets and accommodation. The misspent funds should be used to help the people of MaP.

The misspent funds can be used to;

• Two 250 kVa generators are required to pump water at the pump station;
• Installing the high mast lighting and repairing existing street lights; and
• Maintenance and repair of sewerage system, to name a few.

The DA strongly condemns this decision and urges the municipality to reverse it and use the limited funds available for critical service delivery. The municipality must respond to the planned trip as soon as possible. The DA will not tolerate the mismanagement of resources necessary for good governance.

Issued by Ana Motaung - Councillor Maluti-A-Phofung Local Municipality